About this guide
Rustler is a family of trucks, so the battery choice begins with the exact version. This list is for the Rustler 4X4 VXL and Ultimate: Traxxas names all five part numbers in its Rustler 4X4 VXL parts list. It is not a blanket fitment claim for a 2WD BL-2s or an older Rustler. The 2S packs provide the lower-voltage route, while the 3S packs are for speed configurations that the Ultimate manual ties to gearing and temperature limits. Check the truck compartment, connector and LiPo charger before buying, and follow Traxxas battery and charging instructions.
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The picks, in detail
Traxxas 2842X 5000mAh 2S LiPo
The 2842X is a 7.4 V, 5000 mAh 2S pack in the official Rustler 4X4 VXL parts list.
- Part 2842X in Rustler 4X4 VXL list
- 5000 mAh capacity
- 7.4 V 2S lithium-polymer pack
- Meets manual 5000 mAh 2S threshold
- Lowest current Traxxas price in this set
- Less capacity than the 5800 and 7600 mAh 2S packs
Why we picked it
It is the baseline capacity for the manual's 2S 40 mph configuration and the lowest-priced choice here. Start with this one when predictable 2S operation matters more than extra capacity.
Traxxas 2843X 5800mAh 2S LiPo
The 2843X keeps the Rustler 4X4 VXL on 2S voltage but increases capacity to 5800 mAh.
- Part 2843X vehicle-list match
- 5800 mAh capacity
- 7.4 V 2S voltage
- More capacity than 2842X
- Keeps 2S voltage for the same gearing route
- Costs $10 more than 2842X
Why we picked it
It is an intermediate step for a driver who wants more energy per pack than the 2842X without changing to a 3S setup. Its listed price sits between the 5000 and 7600 mAh 2S options.
Traxxas 2869X 7600mAh 2S LiPo
The 2869X is the highest-capacity 2S choice in this five-pack comparison at 7600 mAh.
- Part 2869X in official list
- 7600 mAh listed capacity
- 7.4 V 2S chemistry
- Largest 2S capacity shown here
- No switch to 3S voltage
- Highest-priced 2S pick at $74.95
Why we picked it
It suits a Rustler 4X4 VXL owner who wants the largest listed 2S energy reserve while staying at 7.4 V. Its larger capacity and highest 2S price call for a physical compartment check before ordering.
Traxxas 2849X 4000mAh 3S LiPo
The 2849X moves to 11.1 V 3S with 4000 mAh capacity.
- Part 2849X vehicle-list match
- 4000 mAh energy rating
- 11.1 V 3S configuration
- Entry-priced 3S option
- Uses a listed Rustler part number
- 3S setup increases gearing and heat demands
Why we picked it
Traxxas lists it for Rustler 4X4 VXL, and the Ultimate manual describes 3S high-speed configurations with gearing and thermal considerations. Choose this only when the truck, gearing and driving conditions match that manual; it is not a speed upgrade to use without setup checks.
Traxxas 2872X 5000mAh 3S LiPo
The 2872X pairs the 11.1 V 3S format with 5000 mAh, giving more listed capacity than 2849X.
- Part 2872X official parts-list match
- 5000 mAh 3S capacity
- 11.1 V nominal voltage
- More 3S capacity than 2849X
- Current Traxxas part and price
- High-speed gearing may require thermal monitoring
Why we picked it
It is the 3S selection for a correctly configured Rustler 4X4 VXL or Ultimate when the manual's gearing guidance has been followed. Check temperatures in high-speed running rather than assuming a bigger pack removes the thermal limit.
What each one costs
Typical price, cheapest first. Tap a name to jump to that pick and its buy link.
Compare any three
| Traxxas 2842X 5000mAh 2S LiPo | Traxxas 2843X 5800mAh 2S LiPo | Traxxas 2869X 7600mAh 2S LiPo | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $49.95 | $59.95 | $74.95 |
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Buying tips
- Identify the truck as Rustler 4X4 VXL or Ultimate before using this list.
- Do not apply these 3S picks to a 2WD BL-2s setup by name alone.
- Check the official parts list for the exact battery part number.
- Match a charger and charge mode to LiPo cell count.
- Follow the Ultimate manual gearing chart when moving from 2S to 3S.
- Monitor motor and ESC temperature during repeated high-speed runs.
As an Amazon Associate and eBay Partner, toptenpick.com earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change.